Akmal needs to listen to the King, say ministers to prevent Potential threat to peace

 

Dr Akmal arrested in KK

Umno Youth chief Akmal Saleh detained

Time to move on: Fahmi (left) and Nik Nazmi have urged all parties to stop playing up the socks issue.

KUALA LUMPUR: Two ministers have urged all parties to heed the decree by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia and stop playing up the “Allah on socks” issue.

“For those who are Muslim and Malay, the Agong’s position is a very high level ... for me to disobey the order and deliberately interpret (His Majesty’s order) in another way is not appropriate,” said Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil as reported by Bernama.

Fahmi said this when asked about the actions of Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh, who continues to campaign for a boycott of KK Super Mart, even after it had apologised and pulled the socks from their shelves.

KK Super Mart’s founder, directors and the firm who had supplied the socks to the convenience store chain have also been charged in court.

Sultan Ibrahim, meanwhile, has decreed that no one should use the issue to incite the people.

But when asked about Sultan Ibrahim’s decree on April 3, Dr Muhamad Akmal had reportedly said: “Did the Agong forbid boycotts?”

Fahmi’s Cabinet colleague, Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, said Dr Muhamad Akmal’s use of the episode for political capital has triggered extreme behaviour.

“His (Dr Muhamad Akmal’s) aggressive attitude towards this issue has invited extreme behaviour from some individuals –including the incidences of Molotov cocktails thrown at several KK Super Mart stores” said the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister.

“Yes, KK Super Mart’s actions have hurt the hearts of Muslims but they have made an official apology and explained what happened,” Nik Nazmi said on Wednesday in a post on X.

Dr Muhamad Akmal’s exploitation of the issue will not benefit anyone said Nik Nazmi, who is also PKR vice-president.

“My advice to him (Dr Muhamad Akmal) is that the desire to introduce oneself to the political arena with issues like this will not last long, look for issues that are critical and beneficial to the people,” he said.

KK Supermart & Superstore Sdn Bhd founder and executive chairman Datuk Seri Dr Chai Kee Kan was also granted an audience with Sultan Ibrahim in which the former apologised to the King and the Muslim community, Nik Nazmi said.

“Using religious sentiments to inflame anger, causing discontent among the people when several violent incidents have already occurred, is an action that benefits no one,” he said adding that Islam was a religion that upheld justice, but emphasised kindness.

“As leaders, we cannot continue to incite the people,” he said.

Potential threat to peace

IN the vibrant tapestry of Malaysia’s multiracial society, where a rich medley of cultures, languages and religions coexist in harmony, a concerning trend has emerged among some political figures.

The exploitation of religious sensitivity to garner support is not just a breach of ethical conduct but also a potential threat to the nation’s peace and unity. As this practice grows more prevalent, it becomes imperative to understand why such tactics are detrimental to Malaysia’s foundational values, and what can be done to foster a more inclusive political discourse.

Malaysia, home to Malays, Chinese, Indians and various indigenous peoples, is celebrated globally for its multiculturalism. This diversity is mirrored in its religious landscape, where Islam, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism and traditional beliefs are practised freely. However, this harmony is contingent upon mutual respect and understanding.

The recent strategy by some politicians to exploit religious sensitivities is not only divisive but also undermines the social fabric that has been carefully woven over generations. By inflaming religious sentiments for political gain, these individuals risk creating rifts among communities that have lived side by side for centuries.

The consequences of such actions are manifold. Firstly, it distracts from the pressing issues facing Malaysia today, such as economic recovery, educational reform and environmental sustainability. Political discourse becomes mired in religious controversy rather than focusing on policies that would benefit all Malaysians regardless of their faith.

The exploitation of religion in politics breeds intolerance and bigotry. Young Malaysians growing up in an environment where religious sensitivity is a tool for political mobilisation may develop skewed perceptions of their fellow citizens, seeing them through the prism of religious differences rather than shared national identity.

Moreover, Malaysia’s standing on the global stage could be tarnished. In an era where inclusivity and human rights are increasingly valued, international partners may view such divisive tactics with concern, potentially impacting diplomatic and economic relations.

What is the way forward? Politicians and leaders across the spectrum must recognise the long-term damage that exploiting religious sensitivities can cause. It is their responsibility to foster a political climate where debates and discussions are centred around policies and visions for the country’s future, not religious or racial differences.

Civil society also plays a crucial role. By promoting dialogue and understanding among Malaysia’s diverse communities, these organisations can help bridge gaps and dispel misconceptions.

Education is equally vital, with schools and universities providing a space for young Malaysians to learn about and appreciate the nation’s rich tapestry of cultures and religions.

The misuse of religious sensitivity for political ends is a path fraught with peril for Malaysia. As a nation that prides itself on its diversity, it is essential to reject such divisive tactics and work towards a more inclusive and united future. Let the political discourse be one that unites rather than divides, reflecting the true spirit of Malaysia – a country where diversity is not just tolerated but also celebrated.

- THANESH TAMALMANI Banting, Selangor

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King: Don’t prolong socks issue

Akmal faces sedition probe 

King: Don’t prolong socks issue

King grants audience to KK Mart founder, does not want socks issue prolonged

His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, consented to grant an audience to KK Mart founder Datuk Seri Chai Kee Kan on Wednesday (April 3). His Majesty later issued a statement, saying that this is the last time he would have to stress on the socks issue involving the supermarket.

PETALING JAYA: His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, wants the controversial socks issue not to be prolonged.

His Majesty, who granted an audience to the founder and executive chairman of KK Supermart & Superstore Sdn Bhd, Datuk Seri Dr Chai Kee Kan, reiterated that no party should take advantage of this matter, including inciting others.

“I do not want this issue to be prolonged,” Sultan Ibrahim decreed to the Royal Press Office.

During the 15-minute audience at Istana Negara, Chai sought His Majesty’s forgiveness and apologised to the King over the sale of socks with the word “Allah” printed on them.

Chai also apologised to the Muslim community.

His Majesty also warned all parties, including KK Super Mart, to be more careful regarding products being sold, especially imported goods, to avoid the issue from recurring.

“All parties must be more responsible. This should not happen again. I hope this is the last time I have to stress on this,” His Majesty decreed.

The chain has been mired in controversy since March 13 after the controversial socks were discovered in the Bandar Sunway outlet.

Chai and his wife, Datin Seri Loh Siew Mui, have been charged with two counts of intentionally wounding the religious sensitivities of Muslims over the distribution and sale of the socks.

The couple had pleaded not guilty.

Anger towards KK Super Mart over the issue has led to three firebombing attempts on the convenience store’s outlets in Perak, Pahang and Sarawak.

Following the incident, the Prime Minister ordered the police not to compromise and for action to be taken against those who commit such acts.

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim also warned that racial and religious must not be used to disrupt order in the country.

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain has vowed that stern action would be taken against those who vandalise KK Super Mart and that investigations were ongoing to identify the perpetrators, warning the public against taking matters into their own hands.

Related  post:

Akmal needs to listen to the King, say ministers to prevent Potential threat to peace

 

Caution – extreme weather ahead (Poll Inside), Uptick in heat stroke, UV and other weather dangers

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Throwing ‘shade’ on UV levels

 Authorities on standby, public urged to stay alert as inter-monsoon period begins

PETALING JAYA: As Malaysia enters the inter-monsoon period, authorities have advised the public to take the necessary precautions to stay safe.

Amid occurrences of heavy rain and strong winds, Fire and Rescue Department director-general Datuk Nor Hisham Mohammad said the public has to be fully alert to changes in the weather.

“Avoid being near water bodies for the time being,” he said, adding that the inter-monsoon period could cause water surges.

ALSO READ: From heatwave to wet days – but El Nino effects to stay longer

“The strong winds and rainfall from the inter-monsoon can also cause tree branches to break; hence, the public should avoid being in areas or park their vehicles where there are trees with high-canopy loads, such as raintrees,” he said when contacted.

Nor Hisham added that instructions have been issued for his department’s officers to patrol recreational areas, especially those near water bodies.

On preparations for the coming Hari Raya celebrations, he said the department will be on standby with the police at locations across the North-South Expressway, East Coast Expressway Phase 1 (LPT 1), and East Coast Expressway Phase 2 (LPT 2).

He added that 30% of the department staff’s leave has been frozen.

ALSO READ: Long wait for rain finally ends

Civil Defence Force (APM) Assistant Commissioner (PA) Sharudin Md Zain said all APM operation centres nationwide have been on standby since March 29, when the inter-monsoon began.

He said some 154 cases of fallen trees were recorded from March 29-31.

This marked a more than threefold increase in the number of cases compared with the same period last year, said Sharudin.

“This stark increase is due to the heavy rain and strong winds that occur in the later parts of the day,” he said, adding that 874 snakes were also caught between March 29 and March 31.

ALSO READ: Throwing ‘shade’ on UV levels

Sharudin, who is the APM disaster management and operations director, also advised the public to take the necessary precautions before carrying out outdoor recreational activities.

“Plan for the location and prepare an emergency kit. Always monitor the situation there and inform the nearest police station of your route and activities planned.

“Check the trees when you are having outdoor activities, and make sure the grounds don’t show signs of erosion.

ALSO READ: Uptick in heat stroke, UV and other weather dangers

“Also take note that your camping site may be a habitat for wild animals,” he said, adding that the public should call 999 in case of emergencies.

The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) said heavy rainfall and strong winds can potentially occur during the inter-monsoon period, especially during later parts of the day.

“These weather conditions have the potential to cause thunderstorms, uproot trees and cause structural damage,” it said in a statement.

Malaysia’s transition to the inter-monsoon period marked the end of the northeast monsoon, which began on Nov 11 last year.

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Uptick in heat stroke, UV and other weather dangers

Beating the heat: A man cooling down at a fountain on a hot day in Kuala Lumpur in this file photo. — AZLINA ABDULLAH/The Star

JOHOR BARU: Three men in Johor have suffered from heat stroke, says state executive councillor Ling Tian Soon.

The Johor health and environment committee chairman said the cases occurred during the heatwave from January to March.

“One of the victims suffered from heat stroke while hiking. The other two victims are an army trainee and an oil palm estate worker.

“Two are currently hospitalised and one required outpatient treatment. Their condition has since stabilised,” he said when interviewed here yesterday.

He advised the public to continuously take precautionary measures as the Meteorological Department of Malaysia (MetMalaysia) recorded high temperatures ranging from 35°C to 37°C in districts like Muar, Tangkak and Segamat in the past three days.

Ling said in addition to the hot weather, Johor is currently in the monsoon transition stage, so rainfall may increase.

“During this time, it is usually hotter in the morning until afternoon. There will be a short period of rainfall in the late afternoon and evening, which could cause flash floods and strong winds.

“MetMalaysia also forecast average levels of rainfall from April until July,” he added.

Asked to comment on an advisory issued by Singapore’s National Environment Agency about extreme levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, Ling said the situation in Johor was still manageable.

On March 28, a Singapore English daily reported that the UV index in the city-state first entered the extreme band at about 12.15pm on March 27, with a reading of 11. It climbed to a high of 12 at about 12.45pm.

The UV index describes the level of solar UV radiation at the earth’s surface, and the maximum reading is 15.

Ling said the matter did not arise when he chaired the Johor environment action committee on Sunday, which was also attended by the state Environment Department and MetMalaysia.

However, he advised the public to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.

Ling said if this is unavoidable, they should wear sunscreen, long sleeves or use an umbrella for protection.

“For those fasting, I urge them to hydrate themselves after breaking fast until their sahur (pre-dawn meal) to avoid dehydration,” he said.

After scorching heat for about two months, Sabah is finally experiencing light rainfall in several parts of the state.

Drizzle from three-day cloud seeding over Papar, Lahad Datu and Tawau were reported over the past few days.

Areas like Sandakan, Nabawan, Penampang and around Kota Kinabalu also saw light rain. It is unclear whether this was due to cloud seeding or other natural phenomena, but the state Meteorological Department reported a 67% success rate from the cloud-seeding exercise.

Meteorologists also forecast the current dry spell to lift with the setting in of the inter-monsoon season this month.

Sabah Meteorological Department director Amirzudi Hashim said the period is expected to continue until May.

“During this season, the country will receive weak winds, resulting in thunderstorms, heavy rain and strong winds that will only last a while,” he said in a statement yesterday.

He said these conditions often occur in the evening or early in the night in the west and interior parts of Peninsular Malaysia, west coast of Sabah as well as south and central Sarawak.

Amirzudi warned the public of flash floods, fallen trees and the destruction of unstable structures.

“The hot and dry spell is forecast to slowly improve by mid-April,” he said

Crowdsignal.com

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Rediscovering the heart of Qing Ming tradition

Important observance: Lim (right) and his family members preparing for Qing Ming prayers for his late parents at the Johor Baru Tiong-Hua Association memorial park.

 It is important to educate the young about purpose of practices to honour ancestors

FOLDING gold and silver foil paper ingots was an annual exercise that my brother and I were tasked to do before Qing Ming.

Both of us would compete to see who could fold more ingots.

My late grandmother would remind us that folding these ingots was not about the quantity or quality, but our sincerity in carrying out the process.

Traditionally, people believed that these ingots, resembling money in the afterlife, would bear different values depending on their shapes.

Those that were perfectly folded would bear more value, in contrast to imperfect ones with pointed edges or which looked like cups.

These memories come flooding back as Qing Ming approaches this year.

Although it falls on April 4, it is observed two weeks before and after that date.

Qing Ming is a day for Taoists and Buddhists to honour their departed family members and ancestors.

Back then, my family and I would visit the columbarium and pay our respects to my grandparents and great-grandparents.

We would always bring their favourite food, such as kopi O kosong for my late grandfather as well as fruits and roasted meat for our ancestors.

We would burn the gold and silver ingots, alongside boxes of other paraphernalia such as clothes, shoes and “hell banknotes”.

After praying, my mother would “update” them on our lives and whether I had been a naughty boy or not.

That was about two decades ago, when I still observed Qing Ming.

Paper smartphones, computers and credit cards were not available or too expensive back then, but now you can even burn a range of paper luxury cars and bungalows.

I always find that aspect fascinating and look forward to seeing what creative items will be churned out each year by enterprising traders selling prayer paraphernalia.

I gradually stopped this annual pilgrimage due to the hassle and inconvenience.

Other than the crowds at columbaria and cemeteries, one would also have to contend with the sweltering heat and smoke from the burning of joss sticks and other items.

Excuses, some might say, but I have stopped observing the tradition.

Yet deep down, I am curious about the origins of these rituals and their significance.

Customary practices can sometimes change due to circumstances and modernity.

One may even wonder to what extent these rituals were practised by our ancestors.

To find out, I spoke to cemetery management committee members and historians about Qing Ming rituals.

While the main rituals do not differ much, offerings such as food can be unique to respective clan associations.

Each clan association prepares its own specialty foods for offerings on the altar, such as the Cantonese fatt gou (prosperity cake) Hakka hee pan (rice cake), Hainan yi bua (glutinous rice cake) and Teochew ang ku kueh (sticky cake).

I also learnt that most of the paper paraphernalia items that I looked forward to, are commercialised.

Historian Lee Eng Kew noted that gold and silver foil papers burned as offerings to ancestors were the only items that symbolised money.

“Hell banknotes and credit card paper paraphernalia are purely commercial,” he said.

Nowadays, families practise and conduct rituals within their means.

Attempts are being made to reduce wastage, such as bringing home edible offerings and minimising the burning of ceremonial items.

Though simplified, these rituals still have meaning if done sincerely.

While it is important to uphold tradition, we must also at the same time educate the younger generation on the significance of these rituals.

If they do not know the reasons for them, it may be difficult to ensure these traditions continue to be practised for years to come.

Qing Ming crowds arrive early to avoid hot sun

Paying respects: Lim (left) and her family members observing the Qing Ming festival by bringing prepared dishes and prayer paraphernalia for their dearly departed at the United Hokkien Cemeteries Teluk Bahang. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star